Looking for a fun place to work in Chicago.

November 7, 2005 9:46 AM

What are some fun (independent/small, socially responsible, quirky) companies based in Chicago? My girlfriend is looking for a good place to work.

Her message: I currently work at the Ben & Jerry's central offices and love the culture, mission, product, and people, but will be moving to Chicago next May. Unlikely that I'll be able to stay with the company - so where else could I work? It's gotta be somewhere that's similar on the important points, with social responsibility being the most important factor. The actual work of the company is less important, though it's fun to put a cool product into the world, such as ice cream. I can think of at least five other great companies in VT, but unfortunately I'm not staying here, and I haven't found any good leads on Craigslist or Monster for Chicago. Thanks!

posted by Xalf to work & money (4 comments total)

Try here, maybe?

Hmm...I'm trying to work for B&J myself...
posted by C17H19NO3 at 9:52 AM on November 7, 2005

IdeaList is always a great source for paid activism jobs.
posted by phearlez at 10:26 AM on November 7, 2005

Try NPO.net, AssociationForum.org and Idealist.org for companies and groups serving the greater good. On the other side, Chicago magazine puts out a best places to work issue every so often. Maybe you can pick up a copy.

There are lots of nonprofits, foundations and associations in Chicago, which can lead to interesting (if not particularly well-paying) work. I've worked in higher ed and health care for about 10 years, my husband for about 15, in Chicago, so feel free to e-mail if you want any inside scoops on the scene there.

Some companies I've always thought it would be cool to work for: Jellyvision, America's Second Harvest, Crate and Barrel (corporate headquarters is in the northern burbs), LaSalle Bank/ABN Amro (highly corporate but they have an excellent community relations program). Kaboom! is out here too--don't they have a connection to Ben and Jerry's?
posted by Sully6 at 10:35 AM on November 7, 2005

PNHP; HMPRG.
posted by gramcracker at 2:48 PM on November 7, 2005